Italian Love Cake

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (plus chilling time)
Servings: 12
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Intensity: Medium effort (mixing, layering, baking)

Description

Italian Love Cake is a decadent dessert featuring layers of rich chocolate cake, sweet ricotta cheese filling, and creamy pudding frosting. This indulgent treat is perfect for special occasions, holidays, or whenever you want to impress your loved ones with a delicious homemade dessert.

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Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake Layer:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)

• ½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional for extra richness)

For the Ricotta Cheese Layer:

• 2 lbs (32 oz) whole milk ricotta cheese

• 4 large eggs

• ¾ cup granulated sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Pudding Frosting:

• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant chocolate pudding mix

• 1 cup cold milk

• 1 container (8 oz) frozen whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed

Optional Garnish:

• Chocolate shavings

• Fresh berries

• Powdered sugar

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Make the Chocolate Cake Layer

1. In a large bowl, prepare the chocolate cake mix according to the package instructions (typically eggs, oil, and water).

2. (Optional) Fold in chocolate chips for extra richness.

3. Pour the batter into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Layer

1. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, eggs, sugar, and vanilla.

2. Mix until smooth and well blended.

3. Carefully spread the ricotta mixture over the chocolate cake batter. (Do not stir—the layers will separate while baking.)

Step 4: Bake the Cake

• Bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

• Let cool completely (about 1 hour) before frosting.

Step 5: Make the Pudding Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, whisk the chocolate pudding mix with cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).

2. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until smooth.

3. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

Step 6: Chill & Serve

• Refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to set.

• Garnish with chocolate shavings, berries, or powdered sugar before serving.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

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Tips & Variations

✅ For a Lighter Version: Use low-fat ricotta and sugar-free pudding mix.
✅ Flavor Twist: Add a layer of Nutella between the cake and ricotta for extra richness.
✅ Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day, so prepare it a day in advance.

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Final Thoughts

Italian Love Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines moist chocolate cake, creamy ricotta, and fluffy chocolate frosting. It’s a labor of love, but the result is absolutely worth it! Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any celebration where you want to share something sweet and special.